Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L maintained the classic style of its predecessors while extending its length by over a foot. This extension did not compromise its iconic design, which combined a tough and upscale appearance. The Hydro Blue model with the High Altitude package featured blacked-out elements and dark gray 21-inch wheels, creating a bold look. The interior of the upper trims was impressive, with a mix of luxurious materials and thoughtful design elements, although some areas like the lower dash used hard plastics. The overall feel was classy, especially for a $70,000 vehicle, and it stood out against competitors like the Ford Explorer and Nissan Pathfinder.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid, on the other hand, took a conservative approach to styling, drawing inspiration from the popular RAV4. This resulted in a larger version of the RAV4 with seating for up to eight and ample cargo space. The interior focused on functionality, with a layer of luxury in the Platinum trim. However, the use of glossy hard plastics and unlined storage areas detracted from the overall quality. The climate system was user-friendly, but the infotainment interface had some drawbacks, such as a small volume knob and the absence of a tuning knob.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's performance was hindered by its standard V6 engine, which produced 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The engine was noisy and lacked the low-end torque needed for a heavy SUV. An optional 5.7-liter Hemi V8 offered 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, improving towing capacity to 7,200 pounds. The chassis provided confident handling, and the air suspension allowed for smooth cornering. Jeep offered three 4WD systems, with the Quadra-Drive II being the most advanced, featuring a low-range transfer case and limited-slip differential.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Max focused on performance with its turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and electronic full-time AWD. It delivered 362 horsepower, allowing for quick acceleration. The Hybrid Max had a fuel economy of 27 mpg combined, with a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. During testing, it achieved 26 mpg on a balanced city and highway route. The ride quality was soft and isolating, but handling was secure only up to a modest point. The electric motors eliminated turbo lag, providing confident acceleration.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered ample interior space, with five inches added to the wheelbase for more legroom. Second-row captain's chairs were standard, and the third row was best suited for children. Cargo space was generous, with 17 cubic feet behind the third row and 85 cubic feet with both rows folded. The infotainment system had legibility issues, but the layout of controls was convenient.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid provided comfortable seating in all three rows and nearly 100 cubic feet of maximum cargo space. The Platinum trim featured upscale materials, but the unlined storage areas could contribute to noise. The second-row captain's chairs allowed for easy access to the third row, which was comfortable for adults. Cargo space was impressive, with 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row and 97.5 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured Uconnect 5 with an 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen, depending on the trim. The system was generally quick and easy to use, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The passenger screen was a standout feature, allowing for independent control of navigation and entertainment. The night vision and Active Driving Assist added to the tech offerings.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid came with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, but the inability to view multiple main-menu screens simultaneously was a drawback. The digital voice assistant was responsive, and the Platinum trim included advanced features like a head-up display and surround-view camera system.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS for models built after May 2023 and received five stars from the NHTSA, except for rollover tests. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included front cross-traffic braking and 360-degree cameras.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features. The adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist provided a high level of automation. However, the Proactive Driving Assist was found to be irritating. The Grand Highlander received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA but did not achieve a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS due to headlight performance and frontal-impact protection.